Antonio Dojer

The abstract art of Antonio Dojer is a reflection of the economically tumultuous and culturally explosive 1970's Cuba of his youth. What he remembers most of that time is that his countrymen somehow managed to maintain faith in spite of their adversity. Dojer observed a powerful resilience within the human soul that drives people to rise above their constraints. With the collapse of Communism, Cuba's challenges increased as health care and food became more difficult to secure. These difficulties only served to sharpen Dojer's skills and enhance his sensitivity.

As the quality of life in Havana diminished, Dojer increasingly focused his energy in two creative directions: drawing and dance. These forms of expression proved to be a natural outlet for the emotional trials of his environment. Dojer pursued his art through high school, ultimately earning the Artistic Award for Creative Excellence in a district-wide competition. He went on to study at the San Alejandro School of Art, where he firmly decided upon art as a life-long career.

As soon as Dojer completed the challenge of graduate school with a Masters of Fine Art degree, his thirst for new facets of artistic expression urged him to move beyond the restrictive Cuban political structure. Although a difficult process with significant personal costs, Dojer made his way to the United States in 1990 and established himself as a permanent resident. Since then, Dojer's artwork has evolved both technically and thematically, though he carries much of his native experience with him. Working in series, Dojer applies stylistic variations to each painting, ranging from whimsical to brooding. His work may include mixed media, deep color treatments, bright splashes or sensual shades, but always projects the human spirit with broad, bold strokes. With strong colors and defined shapes, he creates a sense of passion and rhythm hovering before a background reminiscent of the urban landscape of his youth.

If in Cuba Dojer faced certain restrictions that inhibited his ability to express himself, here in the United States he has found himself creating with boundless, voracious energy. He has exhibited his work all across the country.